For decades, U.S. ground troops have revered the iconic A-10 Warthog as a life-saving “flying tank.” But does Russia have an equivalent? Enter the Su-25 “Frogfoot,” a Soviet-era jet with a similar mission: close air support. Both aircraft are combat-tested and known for their ability to rain firepower on enemy forces, but how do they stack up?
The Su-25, first introduced in 1975, is a smaller and lighter aircraft than the A-10 but shares many similar features, such as a powerful 30mm autocannon and the ability to carry heavy payloads. Despite this, the A-10’s titanium hull, built-in redundancy systems, and unrivaled toughness give it a survival edge that has made it beloved by U.S. forces.
The Su-25 has proven its worth in conflicts like Afghanistan and Ukraine, but frequent reports of its destruction suggest it may not be as resilient as the A-10. Meanwhile, debates rage in the Pentagon over whether the A-10 can maintain its relevance in the era of high-tech fighters like the F-35. Still, with decades of proven combat success, the A-10 Warthog shows no signs of fading from the battlefield anytime soon.
